The 14 Best Sweaters for Men, Tested by Style Editors

Ralph Lauren’s sweater doesn’t just set the standard—it redefines it. What makes it a cut above the rest? For one, the texture. The detailed knit isn’t just for show; it adds depth and richness, catching just enough light to give it a subtle sophistication. The cotton construction is another major win—it’s soft but structured, breathable yet warm, and durable enough to withstand countless wears without losing shape or style.

The real magic here is how it rolls with whatever situation you have happening. It has a sharp, clean edge to team up with tailored trousers for a dinner party but also a level of chill to throw over joggers for a morning coffee run. And let’s talk fit—Ralph Lauren nailed that slightly relaxed silhouette that flatters without feeling fussy.

This isn’t just a sweater; it’s a piece that bridges the gap between timeless style and everyday functionality. Factor in that it has that unmistakable Ralph Lauren heritage baked in, and you’re looking at a sweater that doesn’t just hold up—it elevates your entire wardrobe.

Read More: Best Crewneck Sweaters

Amazon Essentials has everything you need from the best men’s basics to V-neck sweaters. The latter of which is super affordable, making it a no-brainer for anyone looking for a quality, budget-friendly piece. Arriving in a regular fit, it’s the perfect balance for everyday wear, giving you that comfortable, relaxed look without feeling boxy or restricted. It’s knitted from 100% cotton yarn, meaning you receive that soft, breathable feel with an ideal amount of stretch.

Our style editors like to wear a crewneck tee to introduce a bit of contrast by sitting higher around the neck, which complements the V-neck’s open, angled shape. We see it as a way to add some depth to your fit while keeping things casual. Another bonus: It comes in a variety of colors, so you can grab one (or a few) to mix and match with your wardrobe.

Who says a quality sweater has to come with a substantial price tag? Plenty of options can fit your budget like Uniqlo’s ribbed crewneck. In conjunction with being machine-washable, it’s designed for everyday wear and works in both casual and professional spaces.

Whether you’re heading into the office or going to a weekend brunch, you get that flexible wearability. In terms of construction, it’s made with a blend of cotton, polyester, and rayon, meaning it’s soft and comfortable yet strong and easy to care for, with a nice drape and polished look. Plus, there’s a hint of stretch, so you can move any which way without restriction.

We found this piece offers a more clean, refined appearance than most options we’ve given a test run. It’s got that extra something that makes it look a cut above the rest. The ribbing on the collar keeps it in shape and adds a subtle texture, providing a durable and neat finish. Did we also mention it’s machine washable? That’s right, it’s super low-maintenance and doesn’t require special care in order to remain fresh.

A cashmere sweater feels like cozying up to a little slice of heaven. Take Naadam’s uber-popular version that our team style always raves about. It’s insanely soft—way softer than regular wool so it feels amazing against your skin—without any itchy feels. We also love that the fabric itself feels lightweight and packs a load of breathability.

All in all, cashmere looks polished no matter how you wear it. The brand sells it in dozens of colors, including limited-edition hues like cobalt, red, and tangerine that simply pop. Adorned by ribbed cuffs, this sweater has that classic fit you’d expect, but the way it hugs your body is perfect, especially for our athletic guys. It skims your frame just right, showing off your shoulders and giving your biceps a little spotlight—because let’s be honest, you’ve earned it. Keep in mind, sizes do run small.

Pros

• Cable-knit design will stand the test of time
• Looks great dressed up or dressed down
• Cashmere fabric feels incredibly soft
• Can be worn solo or layered over collared shirt

Cable-knit designed sweaters have transitioned from fishermen’s go-to gear into everyday fashion. In other words, it’s the perfect blend of rugged charm with modern style. That’s why we love J.Crew’s crewneck, which is super clean and versatile. You can dress it up with a collared shirt for a dressy ensemble or keep it casual with a pair of jeans. From the office to the Broadway theater, this sweater works in almost every setting. Plus, the intricate knit patterns add personality and texture that never feels dated.

Since it’s crafted from 100% cashmere, we found it’s warm enough to wear solo and not too hot to toss underneath a bomber jacket or fleece layer. Not to mention, it has an incredibly soft hand and will hold up beautifully over time. The sweater does run slightly smaller, so if you prefer a more relaxed fit that’s not too restricting or causing discomfort, go for the next size up. But if you like a more streamlined look, which accentuates your physique, you’re good to go.

You definitely need a polo sweater in your arsenal—it’s like the best of both worlds between a simple polo and a sharper sweater. It gives you an unflappable vibe, but looks way more smart and presentable than just your average top. Quince’s offering is spot-on with the fisherman rib texture that gives it a dimensional look that’s as sophisticated as it is casual. The standout feature though is the front half-placket with functional buttons, giving you the freedom to switch up the neckline for added versatility.

It’s not as heavy as a full-knit sweater, so you can wear a jacket over it and not worry about getting too warm. We’ve worn it to everything from a beer hall to a weekend brunch. To top it off, the brand delivers this high-quality piece at a price that is accessible, proving you don’t need to overspend for a sweater that looks and feels this superior.

If outdoor running is part of your winter routine, you should consider Vuori’s Performance Crew. It’s designed with both comfort and functionality in mind. Made from a stretchy, moisture-wicking fabric, it keeps you dry and moves with you, whether you’re running errands or working up a sweat. By the way, the brand’s signature DreamKnit fabric feels like a dream and won’t overheat you when layered over a lightweight t-shirt or tank top. It’s by far, the smoothest, most buttery-soft fabric we’ve ever tested.

With a modern athletic fit, the cut follows the natural shape of your body without being too tight or loose. You still have the freedom of movement while still looking put-together, so it’s perfect for intense workouts and casual wear.

Unlike traditional crewneck sweaters, turtlenecks offer a bit more drama, elegance, and practicality. Take Asket’s offering. The additional coverage from the roll neck design makes it the perfect go-to for looking sharp and staying warm—no scarf required. Also, the Merino wool material is highly breathable and odor-resistant. You can skip a trip to the dry cleaners because the fabric is tough enough to handle a spin in the washer.

What we love the most is the level of versatility. Thanks to its minimalistic look, our editors have layered it under everything from a bomber jacket to a tailored suit. Quite frankly, it doesn’t matter if you’re going for laid-back or dress-to-impress, this turtleneck fits the bill perfectly. Not to mention, the piece hugs just right, streamlining the upper body and making your pecs look super impressive.

It’s no secret that SuitSupply has the tailored suits down pat, but the menswear brand also nails it in the sweater department, too. For example, this crewneck is produced from Merino wool, which is prized for its ability to regulate temperature and offer breathability. This makes it suitable for layering in the winter or wearing on its own during transitional seasons. Our editors love that this type of fabric is super luxurious with a silky sheen, as opposed to a coarse knit with a rugged appearance.

The fit is impeccable. It skims the body without feeling too tight, delivering a flattering silhouette for most athletic bodies. We highly recommend wearing it for fancier occasions; think a gallery opening, vineyard event or dinner date at a five-star restaurant. It’ll look great layered under a brown trench or winter coat as you hit the town.

Many designer knits focus on the latest fashion whims, but the AMI’s Paris Logo-Intarsia wool sweater beats fleeting trends. It’s the epitome of understated luxury, yet the subtle details still add just enough flair without being flashy. For starters, the heart emblem woven into the fabric isn’t just a logo—it’s a symbol of the brand’s blend of classic and contemporary style.

In terms of craftsmanship, the piece is produced from virgin wool, meaning it comes from the shearing of the sheep that gives the wool supreme softness compared to recycled wool. Also, it has a luxurious softness that feels just as relevant season after season, as the simple yet chic design allows it to seamlessly fit into any wardrobe. Speaking of which, we found it looks great whether you pair it with denim for a holiday movie night or tailored trousers for a dinner date.

Half-zip sweaters are the unsung heroes of layering, giving you options for warmth and style without ever feeling stuffy. Take Everlane’s felted Merino version for example—crafted from a denser, more durable fabric for top-tier performance. It’s naturally moisture-wicking, temperature-regulating, and even odor-resistant, ensuring you stay fresh and cool as a cucumber. More importantly, no chills will creep up your spine when you’re wrapped up wearing this piece.

What sets this sweater apart is its functionality. The zipper lets you adjust to suit your style or the weather—offering a high collar closure as added protection from the cold or an open-neck look for a more laid-back vibe. Plus, the zip detail brings out a sporty, modern edge to your fit.

The silhouette of a half-zip is inherently versatile, bringing a perfect balance of casual refinement to the table. The deep camel, for instance, pairs well with blue jeans for a quick shopping trip or dark chinos work for a romantic date night. Whether you’re aiming for preppy sophistication or leaning toward minimalist chic, this is a wardrobe staple that always looks just right without trying too hard.

A cardigan is like the perfect hybrid, merging the coziness of a sweater with the versatility of a jacket. Octobre Editions’ offering is all about staying snug while braving the frosty air. Despite looking rather chunky, we found this option is easy to throw on for lazy evenings around the house as well as a lunch date.

Styling it is simple. For a day at the office, throw it over a collared shirt with chinos. For a more casual vibe, pair it with slim-fit jeans and boots. It also works perfectly over a turtleneck when the weather calls for something a little warmer.

The fabric choice is another highlight. Compared to some cardigans that lose their structure after a few wears, the weight and high-quality yarn help keeps things in tact for the Gable Cardigan. You may endure a bit of sticker shock, but it’s one of those investment pieces that will elevate your wardrobe.

Read More: Best Cardigans for Men

For a taste of luxury, this sweater feels as rich as it looks, blending premium wool with a classic design that’s pure class. Taking things to a whole new level, Todd Snyder made the turtleneck style with an ombre effect, showcasing a smooth gradient look that’s simply stunning. You won’t be tugging at your collar with this one—the fabric’s been washed for a fuzzy, soft feel that remains comfy all day long. And of course, the hand-knit cable stitch enhances the character of the sweater.

During our test run, one fashion editor said it was the best shield to blustery winds and freezing temps. Since this sweater falls on the dressier side, it should not be worn with jeans. We recommend gathering a sleek pair of trousers and dress shoes to tie it all together. While the price is higher than others on the list, it’s totally worth it for the level of craftsmanship, comfort, and that head-turning style that makes it feel like wearable art.

This shawl collar cardigan sweater is a win for a bunch of reasons—it combines both style and comfort in a unique way that’s hard to beat. First off, the shawl collar itself adds a distinctive element to the design. Unlike a regular V-neck or crewneck cardigan, it folds over in a soft, rounded shape that not only looks great but also provides extra warmth around your neck. It’s also a bit more fashion-forward and versatile, transitioning easily from casual to semi-formal outfits.

We found this sweater has more stretch than other sweaters that we’ve tested. Thanks to its nylon-blend, you have free range of motion whether you’re reaching for something on the top shelf or just lounging in total comfort. It pairs well with other winter wardrobe staples like turtlenecks, scarves, or a light jacket, allowing for practical combinations. As for the craftsmanship, the lambswool is super soft and lightweight without the typical itchiness that can sometimes come with other types of wool. Plus, the intricate, braided pattern isn’t just just for looks. It’s got a rich texture that increases warmth and durability, too.

Read More: Best Shawl Collar Cardigans

How to Style Men’s Sweaters

The key lies in understanding the different styles of sweaters and pairing them accordingly for various occasions. For a casual, laid-back look that you can don every day, wear a classic crewneck sweater with your go-to pants styles, whether you’re running errands or grabbing coffee with friends. V-neck sweaters are great for a smart-casual or business-casual aesthetic in the office or a dinner date since they layer very well over collared shirts. (Zip sweaters also work as such, by the way.)

Cardigan sweaters are easy to dress up with: layer a button-down shirt beneath a well-fitted cardigan for a sophisticated, professional-looking appearance, or pair them with khakis and tailored trousers to achieve a preppy look. Similarly, turtleneck sweaters exude sophistication and work in cocktail and business casual attire; they are easily paired with tailored trousers and blazers for a polished, upscale look.

For a more rugged and outdoorsy style, opt for a chunky cable knit or fisherman sweater.